
IIT JAM Mathematics Exam Analysis 2026: IIT JAM 2026 Mathematics exam, held on February 15, 2026, covered core subjects including Calculus, Linear Algebra, Real Analysis, Differential Equations, and Abstract Algebra. The paper tested conceptual clarity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving ability. Candidates reported a balanced distribution of theoretical and application-based questions. While certain sections were straightforward, others required deeper understanding and multi-step calculations. Time management played a crucial role, especially in lengthy numerical problems. Overall, the paper aligned with the standard IIT JAM pattern, focusing on conceptual strength rather than direct formula-based questions.
The Mathematics paper followed the usual JAM structure with MCQs, MSQs, and NAT questions. The applied portion carried comparatively higher weightage, demanding strong problem-solving skills.
Group Theory featured more questions than expected, making Algebra an important scoring area. Questions from Functions of Several Variables were relatively easy and direct. However, Differential Equations and some Linear Algebra problems were slightly lengthy and required careful calculations.
Overall, the exam tested depth of understanding across fundamental mathematical concepts.
The overall difficulty level of the Mathematics paper was Moderate to Difficult. While Calculus and Real Analysis were manageable, Differential Equations posed challenges due to multi-step solving methods. Students with strong conceptual clarity and regular practice found the paper balanced but time-consuming.
| Section-Wise Difficulty Level | |
| Section | Difficulty Level |
| Calculus | Easy to Moderate |
| Linear Algebra | Moderate |
| Real Analysis | Easy to Moderate |
| Differential Equations | Moderate to Difficult |
| Overall Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult |
The paper included a mix of conceptual, and application-oriented questions. Applied Mathematics had noticeably high weightage compared to previous trends.
Group Theory featured a larger number of questions, testing core algebraic structures and properties. Functions of Several Variables were relatively easy and direct, making them scoring for well-prepared candidates.
Key Observations:
The applied portion had high weightage and required strong analytical skills.
Group Theory included more questions than usual.
Functions of Several Variables were easy and straightforward.
Candidates appearing for the IIT JAM 2026 exam should clearly understand the marking scheme to avoid negative marking. The exam awards positive marks for correct answers and deducts marks for incorrect responses in certain sections.
| Detailed Marking Scheme | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Correct Answer | +1 mark for each 1-mark question |
| +2 marks for each 2-mark question | |
| Negative Marking | -1/3 mark for each 1-mark question |
| -2/3 mark for each 2-mark question | |
| Unanswered Question | 0 marks |
Understanding this marking structure helps candidates strategize attempts wisely and maximize their overall score.